How do I care for a walnut veneered chest?

Keep the timber away from direct sunlight and extreme temperature shifts to protect the delicate veneer and underlying glue from drying out. Dust regularly with a soft, dry cloth and apply occasional specialist wax to nourish the finish. Avoid placing damp items or heavy liquid containers directly on the wooden surface. Proper placement ensures the antique timber retains its natural lustre and structural integrity over decades.

How can I tell an early 18th-century chest from a later revival piece?

Early pieces typically employ oak as a secondary timber inside the carcase and drawer linings, accompanied by hand-cut dovetails and period hardware fixing methods. The patination on the timber develops naturally through centuries of handling and oxidation. Revival pieces from later periods often feature machine-sawn elements, different secondary woods, or standardised modern fixings beneath the surface. Examining the interior construction reveals the true age of the cabinetwork.

Where were these chests placed in a historic home?

Historic walnut chests primarily served in private bedchambers and dressing rooms to store fine garments, linens, and personal valuables. Their decorative veneered surfaces also made them suitable for reception rooms and hallways to display objects. Today, these versatile proportions allow them to function effectively as living room storage or hallway commodes. Their classic forms integrate easily into contemporary domestic interiors.